Visitors to San Ignacio Belize are in luck because there's so much to do within a small area, so even the shortest of holidays gets you close enough to what travel professionals call the “best of the best.” Just two days? No worries. These San Ignacio sites offer fun, splendor and so much more.
Day 1: Caracol Maya Ruins & Mountain Pine Ridge
Immerse yourself and your senses by doubling down on a tour to Caracol Maya Ruins with a stop at Mountain Pine Ridge. Both are located within San Ignacio boundaries so you needn’t travel a long distance nor spend half your time traveling to enjoy both.
Because Cayo bumps up against the Maya Mountains, a trip to Caracol is a must. Once a major political center, this ruin is home to the tallest man-made structure in the region (a lofty pyramid). You’ll traverse spectacular jungles to reach your destination where guides will regale you with tales of the indigenous people living in a city filled with architectural marvels that include tombs, living quarters, religious chambers and more.
Having satiated your appetite for all things archaeological, journey to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve where a bounty of natural wonders will delight all of your senses. Swim in Rio on Pools, an inviting and complex mix of huge granite boulders and rocks plus natural waterslides and troughs. Venture into Rio Frio Cave by sailing the river to enter the cave’s mouth so you can peek inside. Bring binoculars to discover why Belize is Central America’s birding capital.
Day 2: See Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, The San Ignacio Market and Imbibe in Chocolate
Spend your morning roaming Xunantunich, the Maya ruin that’s just as impressive as Caracol but it’s so much closer. Take the vintage hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River to reach this once-thriving city and take your time appreciating stunning views, sacred temples and the jungle that wraps the site in greenery.
Having enjoyed your second Maya archaeology adventure, you’ll be ready to explore San Ignacio’s bustling market. This lively epicenter is filled with just-picked produce, handicrafts and other delights. While you're there, take the chocolate factory tour. You’ll learn how cacao beans are grown, harvested and turned into sweets, liqueurs and divine products that you can justify by remembering that chocolates are filled with antioxidants that contribute to good health.
How to maximize your short stay?
Sojourn at Cahal Pech Village Resort and count on resort guides to escort you throughout both days’ adventures. Because this Belize resort is located adjacent to the Cahal Pech Mayan ruins, you can add a third stop to your itinerary before you return to your lofty accommodations overlooking the town where you’re invited to enjoy tropical libations at the Cooling Rack gourmet restaurant and bar before packing up.
Speaking of packing up, Cahal Pech’s “packages” are phenomenal ways to save money, see everything you wish and hunker down in Belize accommodations as part of the resort’s vacation packages.
Questions about things to see and do in Belize? Send us an email or call 239- 494- 3281. We will love to help you plan your Belize vacation.
